Research in South India found that planting companion marigold flowers and red gram crops alongside Moringa trees increased flower-visiting insect numbers, improving pollination and boosting crop yield. This farming technique is expected to boost the food supply for smallholder communities.
A team of researchers revisited a 1980s model predicting nuclear power expansion and found it had flawed assumptions that impact energy policy decisions. They suggest improving simulation testing methods like sensitivity auditing to increase transparency about model uncertainties.
Researchers found that an adaptive memory tracking training program can improve cognitive function, particularly attention and working memory, in women treated for breast cancer. The training showed lasting gains after just 12 hours of practice.
Weather data from US Navy ships bombed at Pearl Harbor has been recovered, providing a dataset of over 630,000 records that can help scientists understand global climate changes. The new analysis aims to correct uncertainty surrounding World War II's temperature records and fill gaps in existing datasets.
Researchers at the University of Reading have discovered a link between Indian weather forecasting techniques and predicting extreme rainfall in Sri Lanka. By analyzing wind patterns and the Madden-Julian Oscillation, they can identify areas prone to heavy rainfall, allowing communities to better prepare for deadly natural disasters.
Early humans demonstrated advanced planning and knowledge of wood properties to create aerodynamic and ergonomic tools, such as double-pointed wooden throwing sticks. These findings suggest the use of throwing sticks could have enabled group hunts and involved the entire community, including children.
A new app called START has been shown to accurately identify autistic children in India, with a success rate of 86% for neurodevelopmental disorders and 78% for autism. The low-cost tablet screening tool uses simple games and questions to measure social preference, sensory interests, and motor skills.
A new study found that warmer springs are causing British bees to emerge from hibernation 6.5 days earlier due to climate change, potentially disrupting the timing of plant flowering. This could lead to reduced pollination and increased costs for farmers using managed honeybees.
Researchers developed a new approach to help citizens prepare for climate change impacts by bringing community groups together to discuss local threats and potential actions.
A study found that girls in English secondary schools are 42% less likely to aspire to be computer scientists compared to boys. The researchers propose revamping the curriculum to include creative aspects like digital art to increase interest and engagement in computer science. This could help achieve greater gender parity in computing.
A new study reveals that clear-air turbulence has increased in various regions around the world due to climate change. Turbulence durations have risen by 17-55%, with the North Atlantic experiencing the largest increases, impacting flights and passenger safety.
Using satellite data from near-real-time (NRT) sources can significantly improve the accuracy of solar wind forecasts, with a potential increase of nearly 50%.
Researchers have recovered old weather records from the 1903 Storm Ulysses, revealing it was one of the strongest storms in British history. The digital data analysis shows that similar storms would be rare today, highlighting the risks and potential damage they could cause.
Research discovers that reduced levels of Hsp47 protein can prevent blood clots in humans, pigs, and bears, even when immobile for extended periods. The study's findings could lead to new medicines for people with inherited blood clotting disorders.
Research reveals that social inequalities are driving urban water crises in cities worldwide, with affluent individuals consuming a disproportionate share of water for leisure activities. The study suggests that addressing unsustainable water consumption among the wealthy is crucial to reducing these crises.
A new study found that toxic online rows about trophy hunting are becoming increasingly abusive on Twitter, with 7% of tweets containing abusive content. This hostile atmosphere is silencing conservation viewpoints and policymakers are less aware of them.
The faba bean genome has been fully sequenced for the first time, providing a genetic toolkit for breeding lines with beneficial traits. This achievement aims to improve nutritional content and sustainability of production, with a focus on increasing UK-grown pulses and promoting plant-based diets.
A landmark study found that climate change is causing dramatic changes in forests and other habitats, leading to reduced carbon absorption. Regions with high temperatures, deforestation, and farming are most at risk of abrupt landscape changes, which could lead to permanent loss of forestland.
Archaeologists conclude that Anglo-Saxon monasteries were more resilient to Viking attacks than previously thought. Lyminge monastery, located in Kent, endured repeated attacks but resisted collapse for almost a century through effective defensive strategies.
A study by University of Reading ecologists suggests that social and economic factors drive the decline of large carnivore species, with habitat loss being less significant. The researchers propose a sustainable model of development to protect carnivores, but note that this may come at the cost of locking people into poverty.
Researchers at the University of Reading are working on a £2 million project to increase UK-grown faba beans in bread, improving nutritional quality and sustainability. The 'Raising the Pulse' project aims to encourage farmers to switch wheat-producing land to faba bean for human consumption.
A new research project, led by the University of Reading and University of Southampton, aims to enhance primary foreign language teachers' knowledge and classroom skills using digital technology. The 'Digital Empowerment in Language Teaching' programme will be rolled out across England and Scotland to support teacher development.
A study by the University of Reading found that up to 20-25% of UK land may be suitable for growing high-quality Chardonnay still wines by 2050. The regions with the best conditions are expected to be South East England, East of England, and Central England.
Research from the University of Reading found that sinks and P-traps harbor a surprising number of fungal organisms, including black moulds and relatives of baker's yeast. The study showed that these microorganisms can tolerate high temperatures, low pH, and low nutrients, making them a potential risk to health in certain environments.
Research found that air pollution from diesel exhaust and ozone significantly reduces the reproductive success of parasitic wasps controlling aphids on oilseed rape plants. The pollutants alter plant chemistry, attracting a specific wasp species more successfully.
Stronger hurricanes are more likely to reach Europe, with those encountering strong jet stream winds often reintensifying and moving further east. This study investigates the link between hurricane strength and European impact.
Research found that STEM subjects have a social hierarchy based on stereotyped views of ideal students, which affects underrepresentation of women, people of color, and disabled students. Attitudes must shift to make STEM more inclusive and accessible.
A study found that winter storms in north-west India are 31% more frequent and 45% more intense during positive NAO phases, leading to increased moisture and precipitation in the western Himalayas. This could impact crop yields and water security in states like Jammu and Kashmir.
Research at the University of Reading found that high-dose Vitamin B6 supplementation reduced feelings of anxiety and depression in young adults. The study links Vitamin B6 to its calming effect on the brain, which may help alleviate mood disorders.
A study published in Ecology Letters found that pollinators stabilize crop yields, reducing variation by 32%, which can help mitigate supply issues and market shocks. This finding highlights the importance of preserving pollinators for global food security.
Researchers analyzed DNA of Demodex folliculorum mites living in human hair follicles, finding unusual body features and behaviors due to their isolated existence. The study suggests these mites may transition from external parasites to internal symbionts as they shed unnecessary genes and cells.
A team of scientists has discovered the molecular triggers of parosmia, a distorted sense of smell, and identified compounds responsible for triggering the sense of disgust. The study found that certain highly potent odor molecules in coffee can lead to this experience.
New computer simulations predict that farmland and suburban moths are struggling to move across landscapes due to landscape features such as rugged hills. Habitat restoration in these areas could help species adapt to climate change by shifting their ranges across the country.
The Hunga Tonga volcano's 2022 eruption was the biggest bang since Krakatoa, with a pressure wave traveling around the world four times over six days. The explosion produced a shockwave comparable to the largest nuclear test, yet lasted four times longer.
An automated nutrition app called eNutri improved participants' healthy diet scores by 6% compared to a control group. The app provides personalized nutrition advice based on evidence and uses a diet scoring system.
A new diagnostic kit called Cygnus detects Dengue Fever with improved rates, beating lateral flow testing and matching hospital-based lab diagnostics. The tests also identify the specific virus type causing the infection, offering a potential solution for widespread disease detection.
A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease Reports suggests that damage to the blood-brain barrier is the determining cause of Alzheimer's disease. The Lipid Invasion Model proposes that lipids entering the brain due to barrier damage lead to brain shrinkage, amyloid plaques, and tau tangles, characteristic of the disease.
Research reveals that ozone levels in the upper and lower atmosphere are weakening one of Earth's main cooling mechanisms, making it a significant greenhouse gas. The study found that increased ozone in the lower atmosphere caused 60% of the overall ozone-induced warming seen in Southern Ocean waters.
Volunteers transcribed 130 years of handwritten rainfall observations, extending the UK's rainfall record back to 1836. The new data provides insights into extreme dry and wet months, as well as recent changes in rainfall due to climate change.
A new study reveals climate change has caused significant recent losses of India's forests, exacerbating deforestation. The research found that rainfall alterations and temperature trends contributed to large declines since the turn of the century, necessitating targeted preservation action.
New research from the University of Reading found that changes in air pollution levels in Asia and Europe may have driven prolonged European summer extremes and Central Asian dry spells. The study revealed that air pollution reductions in Europe strengthened the jet stream, while increases in Asia weakened it.
Researchers developed a statistical model to explain sudden changes and stasis in species history, finding they can be attributed to natural variability. The study supports Darwin's theory of gradual evolution by demonstrating that even abrupt changes are underpinned by directional selection.
Common air pollutants from urban and rural environments reduce pollinating abilities of insects, leading to fewer flower visits and overall pollination reductions. The study observed up to 70% fewer pollinators, 90% fewer flower visits, and a 31% reduction in pollination when common ground-level air pollutants were present.
Scientists have developed a new technique to extract DNA from the 'cement' head lice that attached eggs to hairs of ancient humans. This method reveals clues about pre-Columbian human migration patterns in South America, allowing for the study of unique samples from mummified remains where bone and tooth samples are unavailable.
A new report highlights the need for a comprehensive system of risk management to deal with complex environmental risks. Experts from academia and government have identified key sources of data and interventions to reduce multiple types of risk, including air pollution, food insecurity, and zoonotic diseases.
Research reveals that dyslexic children process visual information slower and less accurately than their peers, with brain activity differences detected. This study challenges previous assumptions about the effects of dyslexia on brain processes.
A study of over 2000 participants found that time spent alone during the pandemic led to improved well-being scores, with 43% describing activities as a source of competence. Adults experienced disrupted well-being and negative mood less frequently than teenagers, highlighting the importance of solitude for mental health.
A new test separates people into different groups based on their platelet response, potentially leading to more precise treatments for strokes and heart attacks. Researchers developed a computer software to analyze and classify data from human participants' blood samples.
A new study found that prior financial circumstances had the biggest bearing on food insecurity among young families in Peru. The Peruvian government's Bonos payments did not improve food security for those who received them compared to others in similar situations.
Researchers have developed a new type of red meat that replaces nitrite with natural alternatives from plants and fruits, including Japanese Knotweed. The results showed significantly lower levels of nitrite content in participants' faeces compared to conventionally processed red meat.